With binoculars in their hands, our 7 year old and her younger brother, soon to be a 4 year old, went on a hunt for their friends from Madagascar. You see, the children’s movie trilogy “Madagascar” has been on repeat in our household. Although we have all visited the Houston zoo before, this time we visited with a purpose to go on a scavenger hunt to visit our friends. We first spotted “Marty” the best friend Zebra, “Gloria” the no nonsense mini hippopotamus, then “Alex” the fierce lion. Lastly, the kids spotted “Melvin” the anxiety induced giraffe.

The kids came with a mission and left satisfied that all their Madagascar friends were accounted for. Well, the main characters at least.

Visiting the Houston Zoo invoked their creativity and love for the animals. It’s a safe space for cultivating bonds and experiencing play. There are also plenty of teachable moments learning about each animal’s background and dietary needs. We see this place as a place of growth where our children can witness in real time observing these precious creatures. Some in rehabilitation, some taking naps, and some in their element playing.

It’s a day our family will always treasure in this season of life of raising little ones. The Houston Zoo is a part of our core memory in the Hunt for our Madagascar friends we shall forever cherish.